WASHINGTON, March 19 (RIA Novosti) - An explosion during a training exercise at the Hawthorne Army Depot in Hawthorne, Nevada has left seven US Marines dead and several others wounded the military said Tuesday.
The 60-millimeter mortar exploded about 10 p.m. PDT Monday (0500 GMT) at the 230-square-mile (596-square- kilometer) ammunition storage and training facility near the California border.
There were conflicting reports about how the accident took place, according to NBC News. One account said the mortar exploded in a tube as Marines were getting ready to fire it. Another account said it exploded as Marines were picking it up to load it.
The military said the cause of the explosion is under investigation.
The Marines were members of the Second Marine Division based at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.
“We send prayers and condolences to the families of Marines involved in this tragic incident. We remain focused on ensuring that they are supported through this difficult time,” said Maj. Gen. Raymond C. Fox, commanding general of the Second Marine Expeditionary Force in a statement. “We mourn their loss, and it is with heavy hearts we remember their courage and sacrifice.”
Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, who represents Nevada, offered condolences on the Senate floor Tuesday morning. “My heart goes out to the families of those who lost their lives. And my sympathies are with their fellow Marines, who are also grieving this loss.”
US President Barack Obama was made aware of the incident immediately, and the White House is monitoring the situation, spokesman Jay Carney said on Tuesday.
The identity of the dead Marines won’t be released until 24 hours after their families are notified, a Marines spokesman said.
